June 21, 1945 – June 6, 2026
Jerry Lee Ray passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his family, on June 6, 2026.
Born on June 21, 1945, in Bedford, he was the son of Harry E. and Kathryn Lucille (Elmore) Ray. Jerry married Carolyn Sue Ruch on November 23, 1968, and she survives.
A graduate of Shawswick High School’s Class of 1963, Jerry’s early years were highlighted by his proudest accomplishments in athletics, notably winning the 1958 Biddy Ball State Championship with the Boys’ Club. The team also achieved a remarkable seventh-place finish at the World Championships in Scranton, PA. The friendships and relationships forged during these experiences remained an integral part of Jerry’s life throughout the years. Jerry devoted 35 years to his career as a painter. He attended Mt. Pleasant Christian Church.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Carolyn “Sue” Ray; their children Luci (Rickey) McFall, Jerry Ray Jr., and Melissa “Missy” (Greg) Tackett; along with many grandchildren including Tiffany (Rob) German, Michael (Kalee) McFall, Alycen (Jordan) Ray, Ashley (Jon) Miller, Tyler Guthrie, Carlee (Jackson) Ryan, Cassidy (Evan) Deckard, Jacob Ray, Owen Tackett, and Katelyn (Brayden) Ray. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Waylon and Reagan German, Konner (Savannah) McFall, Benji, Paisley, Bentley, and Brynlee Thompkins, Nolan Patton, Nash Ray, Alex Miller, Ruby and Curry Ryan, Ava and Mia Deckard, and Aspen Wilkerson. Jerry also leaves behind his siblings Bill (Connie) Ray, Steve Ray, and Anita Todd; his sister-in-law, Trudy Ruch; and several nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Mt. Pleasant Christian Church, 2394 Mt. Pleasant Road, Bedford, with Pastor Jeff Hudelson officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Limestone Chapel of George Funeral Care, 527 15th Street in Bedford.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jerry’s memory to the Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence County.
Honoring Jerry as pallbearers will be Greg Tackett, Rickey McFall, Michael McFall, Owen Tackett, Rob German, Bill Ray, and Jimmy Lee Connors.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.limestonechapel.net.
Arrangements have been placed in the care of Derek and Abby George with the Limestone Chapel of George Funeral Care at 527 15th Street in Bedford.
